Curriculum & Data

From the Director of Curriculum and Data

Welcome back to Term 2! As we settle back into our routines, I wanted to highlight the ongoing importance of literacy across all subject areas. Literacy isn't just about English lessons; it's the bedrock of all learning. Whether it's deciphering complex scientific reports, articulating insightful historical analyses, or expressing nuanced mathematical reasoning, strong reading comprehension, clear written communication, and articulate verbal skills are essential. This term, we encourage students to actively engage with the language of each discipline; paying close attention to key vocabulary, understanding the structure of different text types, and honing their ability to express their understanding with precision and confidence. By nurturing these skills, we empower students to not only succeed academically; but also to become effective communicators and critical thinkers in all aspects of their lives.

Building on this foundation, Term 2 will also see a continued focus on developing effective study skills and a thoughtful approach to assessment. We encourage students to proactively plan their study schedules, utilising strategies such as regular review, active recall, and seeking clarification when needed. Assessments are designed not just as measures of learning but also as valuable opportunities for growth and feedback. We encourage students to view them as a chance to demonstrate understanding, identify areas for further development, and refine their learning strategies. By embracing a growth mindset and actively engaging with the assessment process, they will not only achieve their academic goals but also cultivate lifelong learning habits that will serve them well beyond their time at Brigidine College Randwick.

Year 11 2026- Subject Selection

Year 10 students are asked to select a program of study that is going to realise their long-term goals. The College is accredited to offer courses developed by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) as well as Vocational Education and Training (VET) curriculum frameworks. The College also has programs where students can combine NESA, Technical and Further Education (TAFE) and paid work through a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship. The workforce of the future will require a range of skills and people with different types of qualifications. Year 10 students are encouraged to pursue excellence and follow their passions and interests when selecting their subjects for Years 11 and 12.

Stage 6 is typically a two-year program of study in Years 11 and 12, where students complete a Preliminary and HSC Course in each subject they study. At Brigidine College, the Preliminary courses are taught in the first three terms of Year 11, and the HSC courses commence in Term 4 of Year 11. The various accrediting authorities (NESA, VET and Universities) have rules and requirements associated with various study programs. A booklet for subject selection has been prepared to support students and families in navigating the subject selection process. This book will be given to students at the compulsory Subject Selection Evening on Tuesday, 20th May.

It is impossible for Year 10 students to know exactly what they are going to do with the rest of their lives, but they should have some ideas about what they are interested in. At this stage, Year 10 students should know what their options are and what they need to do to pursue those options. University is a good option for many students; however, it is not the only way. There are excellent colleges that offer very good courses, and students are encouraged to thoroughly research the options available.

There are many professions where an undergraduate degree is required, and a commonly travelled pathway involves an application through the University Admissions Centre (UAC), which calculates an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) for each student. Universities set an ATAR cut-off for various courses and then offer students who meet the minimum ATAR a place in a course at their institutions.

The ATAR is not the only pathway to university. An increasing number of students are using the Certificate IV at TAFE as an entry to University or to study undergraduate degrees at TAFE. Some courses offer Portfolio Entry, and various University Preparation Programs are another avenue.  It is important that students thoroughly research all options available.

Students must begin their research by establishing career goals. They can change their mind, but it is important to know what they want and be committed to doing whatever it takes to get there.

The Subject Selection Program at Brigidine will provide students with relevant information to assist those who enter Year 11 in 2026. 

Students in Year 10 are encouraged to start thinking about their subject selection for 2026. They should choose subjects they have an interest in, that suit their capability and their future career aspirations. Students and parents should seek as much advice as possible before making any decisions regarding subject choices. Teachers, Heads of Departments, the Pathways and Partnership Coordinator, Director of Curriculum and Data and Director of Learning and Innovation can all assist in this process.

Trish Smith

Director of Curriculum and Data